14 January 2022
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Representation review appeal
Enquiry
Following on from my story on the representation review appeals, I am writing a story about the Rotorua Residents and Ratepayers group's appeal.
I have attached the appeal and RDRR's press release about it for the council to view and provide right of reply if it wishes.
I also have a question for attribution which is:
Does a councillor - Reynold Macpherson, in his capacity as chairman of RDRR - appealing the council's representation review decision have any impacts, potential impact or risks in terms of conflicts of interest, according to the council? Please explain what these are if so.
Response
As we stated last week, while the appeals process is underway it is not appropriate for us to comment on the nature of the appeals received.
We would like to point out that in the press release you’ve provided, in paragraph two, Dr Macpherson’s statement that ‘council’s initial proposal of 2M:4G:4AL was ruled unlawful by LGC’ is incorrect. This model did meet legislative requirements.
In regards to your question, please see the following response from Council’s Acting Chief Executive, Gina Rangi:
This is not considered a conflict of interest as the appeals process now sits with the Local Government Commission who will make the final decision on representation arrangements for Rotorua.